ERIS
“Everyone, have your seat and please be quiet. Hey! Students at the back, lower down your voices or else ipapa-detention ko kayo.” saway ng isa sa mga class representatives ng kabilang section.
Lahat kaming mga class representatives from different classes ang nag-aasikaso ngayon. Biglaan lang din kasi, at wala pa ang student council.
Actually, wala akong alam kung ano ba ang meron ngayon. Ang sinabi lang sa’min ni Gio sensei ay pumunta sa auditorium dahil may importanteng announcement daw.
“Justin, maupo na nga kayo— ackk!” halos masakal ako nang biglang may yumakap sa’kin. Sa gulat ko, nanindig talaga ang aking mga balahibo.
Seriously? Sa leeg ko pa talaga!?
“Found you, miss Eris!” masayang bungad sa’kin ni Trevor. Kumunot agad ang aking noo at halos hindi na din siguro maipinta ang aking itchura sa sobrang inis.
Nagkatinginan muna kaming dalawa bago ko hinawakan nang madiin ang kaniyang braso dahilan para mapangiwi siya sa sakit at bitiwan agad ako.
“Ang aga-aga miss Eris, nananakit ka agad.” nakangusong sinabi niya habang hawak ang kaniyang kaliwang braso.
“Paano, ang aga-aga sinisira mo agad ang araw ko.” buwelta ko naman pabalik sa kaniya sabay irap.
Bakit ba kasi ang kulit ng lalaking ‘to!? Feeling close pa sa’kin. Ang kapal ng mukha yakapin ako. At talagang sa leeg ko pa!? Ang sakit kaya!
He gasped exaggeratedly as he placed his hands on his chest, “Ouch! Ang sakit non miss Eris, tagos sa puso ko! Ackk!”
I just sighed as I roll my eyes. Here we go again, nagsisimula na siyang maging dramatic. Ang OA talaga ng lalaking ‘to.
“Shut up! Ano ba ang ginagawa mo dito?” I impassively said and then he’s back at being jolly again.
“Of course, para makita ka miss Eris!” I looked at him annoyed. Tinalikuran ko nalang siya at naglakad palayo.
“P’wes ako, ayaw kita makita. Bumalik ka na sa klase niyo kung ayaw mo na ipatawag ko pa ang representatives ninyo para bigyan ka ng punishment.” I heard him exaggeratedly gasped again.
“Miss Eris naman!”
“Eris!”
Bigla kaming natigilan sa pagtatalo ni Trevor nang tawagin ako ni class rep. na kasama na ngayon sila Hannah, Jacob, Spade, Lucas, and surprisingly pati si Kei.
Teka, kailan pa nagsimulang magsama-sama mga ‘to?
“Wow, himala andito ka, Kei? Nagsawa kana ba mag pasaway?” I said, teasing him. He just looked at me with his usual facial expression.
“Shut up, it’s none of your business.” he just glared at me.
“Heh~” I smirked and greeted my friends instead.
“By the way Eris, sino ‘yang kasama mo?” Lucas asked while looking at someone behind me. Kunot noo naman akong napatingin sa likuran ko.
“Bakit andito ka parin!?” I glared at him.
He just waved his right hand and smiled, “Hi! I’m Trevor Lumiere, from class 3-E Dating ka-schoolmate ni miss Eris at isa niya akong loyal fa— ughk!”
Agad ko siyang siniko sa tiyan, which made him groaned in pain, “Dati ko siyang ka-schoolmate sa Thelesa High.” liningon ko siya’t tiningnan ng masama at sinenyasang umalis na, kaso nakikipagmatigasan talaga siya sa akin.
Aba’t talaga nga naman!?
“Oh! I remember him,” nasabi ni class rep. kaya napatingin kaming lahat sa kaniya, “Siya ‘yung new student na sinabi sa atin before ni Yuzuru sensei, remember?”
Nagkatinginan naman silang lahat. Maliban kay Kei na halatang hindi interesado makinig sa kung sino ba si Trevor. Look at him, ang sungit talaga ng lalaking ‘to kahit kailan.
“Diba siya ‘yung new student na naka three star agad right after niyang pumasok dito, ‘yung may healing ability!” class rep. said enthusiastically.
“Wait, what? Healing ability!?” agad kong tinapunan ng masamang tingin si Trevor. Mabilis niya namang itinaas ang parehas niyang kamay at umatras nang dahan-dahan palayo sa akin. He just nervously laughed.
“Totoo ba ‘yon, ha?” I asked him in an irritated tone. Pakiramdam ko nanggagalaiti ako sa nalaman ko, parang gusto ko siyang sakalin ngayon.
Matapos ko siyang gamutin, nag-aalala lang pala ako sa wala!?
“Hmm, Ngayong nabanggit mo ‘yan class rep., oo nga, sa pagkakaalala ko siya nga ‘yon.” Jacob said while staring at Trevor.
“L-Let me explain miss Eris. Hehehe.” Trevor said while his hands are still up.
“Hindi ko kailangan marinig ang paliwanag mo.” agad ko siyang hinila at inipit ang kaniyang leeg sa aking braso. Wala naman magawa si Trevor kung hindi ang mamilipit sa sakit at mag makaawa sa‘kin.
“Aray! I give up! Give up! M-Miss Eris, I give up! Hindi ko na kay— aackk!”
“Ayoko! Matapos mo akong lokohin, ha!?” habang nakaipit siya sa aking braso, piningot ko ang kaniyang kanang tainga, sapat na para mas mamilipit pa siya sa sakit.
“Uhh, Eris? Tama na ‘yan baka makita ka ng ibang class representatives ma-detention ka pa.” pagsaway sa akin ni class rep. I hissed and rolled my eyes as I let him go.
“Mukhang close kayo ah.” biglang nasabi ni Hannah na siyang nakapag panganga sa akin.
“Huh!? Hindi ‘no!” I said in an irritated tone. class rep. and Jacob laughed. I’m so annoyed with them that I just remain silent.
“Ang sakit naman non, miss Eris. Akala ko ba magkaibigan na tayo?” Trevor said while looking at me with puppy eyes.
“Wala ako maalalang pumayag ako.” I bluntly said as I glared at him.
Napatingin naman ako sa gawi ni Kei. I furrowed my brows in annoyance because he’s literally glaring at me right now. Kulang nalang sunugin na niya ako ng buhay. I can even feel his anger, ang init, sinusunog na niya ata ako sa isip niya e? Siguro kung wala akong nullification ability baka tustado na ako kanina pa.
“What? Ano na naman ba problema mo sa’kin?” I said in an irritated tone.
He didn’t bother to answer, instead he throw an irritated look at Trevor, more like gusto na niya itong sunugin ngayon.
Ano ba problema na naman ng lalaking ‘to? Palagi nalang mukhang galit sa lahat.
Bigla naman natakot sa kaniya si Trevor kaya mabilis pa sa alas-kwatrong nagtago siya sa aking likuran.
“Haah. Pwede ba, ‘wag mo ako gawing panangga.” iritableng sinabi ko at tinampal ang kamay ni Trevor na nakahawak pa sa aking balikat.
Matapos niyang bumitaw sa ‘kin ay kinausap na siya nila class rep., Hindi ako magugulat kung maging close sila, parehas naman silang masiyahin e. While they’re having a conversation, a sudden chill run down my spine which made me flinched.
For a split second, I sensed someone is looking at us. Automatically, I roam my gaze.
What’s with that?
I look at everywhere. I tried to search that person, but I can’t sense its presence anymore. Surprisingly, it vanished instantly.
“W-What’s with that weird feeling...” I murmured. I can’t help it but to shiver in fear and anxiousness. I don’t have any idea why I’m feeling this now but—
It’s like someone is watching us, with malicious intent...
That moment,
even for just a second,
I sensed bloodlust.
“Eris?”
“Miss Eris?”
“Hoy, Eris!”
My mind is too occupied that I can only hear the voices of my friends. I suddenly covered my mouth. I feel like I’m about to vomit.
There’s no doubt about it, I’m really sure that’s what I felt.
That sickening bloodlust...
Just thinking about the feeling of it makes me shiver again.
What in the world... was that?
“Eris!” malakas na sigaw ni Hannah at hinampas ako ng libro sa aking braso dahilan para mabalik ako sa reyalidad.
“Ano ba!? Bakit kailangan mo pa mang hampas?” inis na tanong ko habang nakahawak sa aking braso at napatingin sa librong inihampas niya sa akin.
“Ah! Miss Eris...” nag-aalalang nasabi ni Trevor.
“It’s okay, don’t mind them. Normal na ‘yan sa kanilang dalawa.” Class rep. said as he smiles. Trevor just looked at us confused.
“Eh? Normal?”
“Oh, you don’t know? They’re childhood best friends.” nasabi nalang ni class rep.
“So it’s her!” hindi makapaniwang nasabi ni Trevor.
“Hannah, saan mo naman ‘yan nakuha? Encyclopedia ba ‘yan, ang kapal at ang sakit ha!” no wonder kung bakit halos matumba ako sa pagkakahampas niya.
“What’s the matter? Kanina ka pa namin tinatawag pero parang nakatulog ka na.” Jacob said while looking at me innocently. Para niya akong inaasar kung paano niya ako tingnan, and it really pisses me off. He also knows how to annoy me.
“Stop looking at me like that. Seryoso ka ba? Wala naman tao nakakatulog ng dilat ang mga mata at nakatayo!” I scowled. I sighed and closed my eyes in frustration.
“Miss Eris, are you okay?” Trevor asked. I know he’s worried about me, but I can’t tell it to them. I just took a deep breath.
“I’m fine. Bumalik ka na sa klase niyo, baka hinahanap ka na nila.” mahinang sagot ko. Halatang hindi siya kumbinsido sa sinabi ko pero hindi nalang siya nagtanong pa ulit. Tumango nalang siya at nagpaalam na.
“See you later, miss Eris!” tumango nalang ako ng tahimik.
“Are you sure? Wala ka naman sigurong sakit ‘no?” naitanong naman ni class rep. Bago pa man ako makasagot sa kaniya, bigla nalang nagsi-tilian ang mga babae.
“KYAAAHH!”
“President Halstein!”
“OMG, prince Halstein!”
“It’s the student council!”
Kunot noo ko naman tiningnan ang mga estudyanteng kadarating lang, “President Halstein? Siya ba ang student council president?” tanong ko.
“Oo nga pala, ngayon mo palang siya nakita ‘no?” class rep. asked and I nodded as a response, “That’s our student council president, Brexos Halstein.”
“Brexos Halstein...” I murmured while staring at him.
He looks cool and he’s really handsome, especially when he smile, but I kinda feel like he’s a bit mysterious. Well, it’s just my impression to him.
He has a golden brown hair— close to brown blonde, fair skin, pointed nose, and he’s tall. Like, 6ft or so. And to be honest? I get why girls are calling him ‘prince.’ He really have this prince-like vibe. He looks so charming.
Bigla nalang tumabi sa akin si Kei na nakapamulsa. I turned my eyes at him confused. Well, at least he’s not glaring at me now, instead his eyes are fixed at president Halstein.
“Kanina... Naramdaman ko din ‘yon.” he said in a calm and serious tone, which caught my attention. I instantly use my Alice so no one will eavesdrop on our conversation.
I stared at him with an uttered confusion, “You... that—”
He nodded which made my eyes widen. I thought I was the only one who sensed that bloodlust. Magtatanong palang sana ako kung alam ni Kei kung sino ba ‘yon pero nagsalita na agad siya habang hindi parin inaalis ang kaniyang tingin kay President Halstein.
“I don’t have any idea,” he said, and then looked at me, straight into my eyes, “I think it’s better if you don’t say a word about it, they will definitely feel scared.”
That’s... true.
I just nodded as a response. Well, he’s right. Our friends will probably feel scared if they know about it, lalo na si class rep. I have to keep an eye on them, I must protect them just incase anything bad happens.
“Pero pwede ko ba sabihin ‘yon kay Nathan at Yuzu sensei? Tingin ko mas okay kung magsasabi ako sa kanila.” I asked. He remained silent for few seconds, but eventually, he agreed.
“Just don’t let anyone else hear about it. You can trust Nathan and Yuzuru, but don’t easily trust other people you don’t even know.” I simply nodded as a response.
“Whoever that person is, I’m sure they’re plotting something. We don’t know what it is, but for now, be careful and don’t let your guards down. We don’t know what might happen.” and then, he took his leave.
I just stood there confused as I averted my eyes to President Halstein again. Nagulat nalang ako nang magtama ang aming mga mata at nginitian niya ako. Since I’m wearing face mask, I just slightly bowed as a response.
Well, President Halstein seems nice...
“Eris, let’s go.” pag-aaya sa’kin ni Jacob. Sumunod naman agad ako sa kanila at naupo na.
Kei is right, we don’t know what will happen. After ko maramdaman ‘yon, aminado akong kinilabutan talaga ako.
Fear. That’s what I felt earlier.
This is the first time I sensed such a frightening bloodlust, and it really bothers me. Also, that person have this peculiar aura.
I don’t know if it’s just me, but I can tell that there’s something that shouldn’t be here.
It’s like an intuition. I stared at my hands, still shivering. I slowly wrapped my arms around my body trying to suppress the fear I’m still feeling. There’s so many questions running in my head, but the real question is...
Who’s that person?
But whoever he is, one thing is for sure, he’s dangerous.
I feel afraid for my friends. If they only sensed it, I’m sure they will feel bothered and scared too.
“Jacob?” nilingon naman agad niya ako.
“Bakit?”
“Kanina ba may kakaiba kang naramdaman?” bakas sa kaniyang mukha ang pagtataka.
“Kakaiba? Wala naman. Bakit, may problema ba?” nag-aalalang tanong niya. Mabilis naman akong umiling.
“Nothing.” I sighed in relief. Mukhang hindi siya kumbinsido sa sagot ko pero hindi na rin naman siya nag abala pang mag tanong.
Mabuti nalang, mukhang wala naman silang alam. But still, it bothers me.
“Nilalamig ka ba?” Jacob asked, I looked at him confused. Akala niya siguro nilalamig ako ngayon. Maybe I’ll just go with the flow and pretend.
“Uhh, hindi naman masyado—” bago pa man ako matapos sa pagsasalita, nailagay na niya sa aking balikat ang kaniyang coat.
“Napansin ko kasi para kang nilalamig. Suotin mo nalang muna ‘yan.” I stared at him for seconds and shyly smiles, even though be couldn’t see it.
“Thank you.” he smiled in return, but suddenly I feel like someone’s glaring at me. I can feel it at the back of my head.
Awtomatikong lumingon ako sa aking likuran at tumingala ng kaunti. Kitang-kita ko kung paano na naman ako tingnan nang masama ni Kei. Pakiramdam ko hindi na ako lalamigin pa sa sobrang sama ng kaniyang tingin. Inirapan ko nalang si Kei at muling ibinalik ang tingin kay Jacob at ibinalik na din ang kaniyang coat.
“I think I don’t need it anymore. May tao kasing kulang nalang silaban ako ng buhay kung makatingin e. Hindi na lamig ang nararamdaman ko, galit.” sarkastikong nasabi ko nalang.
Nagtataka naman tinanggap ni Jacob ang coat niya. Agad ko naman nilingon ulit si Kei sa likuran at nakipagpalitan ng masasamang tingin.
Ano na naman ba nagawa ko? Nag hahanap na naman ba siya ng away!? Napaka-moody talaga ng lalaking ‘to. Tch!
Hindi ko nalang siya ulit pa pinansin. Siguradong iniinis lang niya ako. Ilang minuto lang ang lumipas ay natahimik na din sawakas ang mga estudyante. Ang student council naman ay nasa stage na, gano’n na din ang mga teachers.
“Good morning, Alice!” masiglang bati ni Nathan sensei at nagsigawan na naman ang mga estudyate, lalo na ang mga babae na walang ibang ginawa kung hindi ang tumili.
May ilan pang kumukuha ng litrato niya, kaliwa’t-kanang flash ang makikita sa buong auditorium. Medyo nakakasilaw at masakit sa mata.
Sa sobrang ingay nila, hindi makapagsimula nang maayos si Nathan sensei regarding sa announcement. Feeling ko talaga masisira ang eardrums ko sa ingay nilang lahat e.
“Nathan sensei!”
“Kyaaah! Sensei, you’re so cool!”
“Bagay na bagay sa’yo, sensei!”
Halos hindi na maipinta ang aking mukha nang mapansin ko kung ano ang suot ni Nathan sensei ngayon.
“Homeroom teacher ba talaga natin ang nakikita ko o cosplayer?” I sighed and facepalm.
Natawa nalang nang mahina si class rep., “Hindi ka pa nasanay kay Nathan sensei.”
“Ewan ko ba kay Nathan sensei kung bakit halos araw-araw nalang naka-costume, mabuti nalang hindi siya napapagalitan.” Jacob said. Hindi naman namin maiwasan ang matawa.
Nathan sensei is wearing a traditional hanbok today. The color of his clothing has the combination of white, black, and red. May dala din siyang kulay itim na pamaypay, at nakatali din ang kaniyang mahabang buhok, which makes him look more attractive.
I don’t know if hair extensions ba ‘yon or something, but I won’t deny he looks cool and yeah, he’s so damn handsome.
Although natatawa ako kung bakit palagi nalang siya naka costume, I can’t deny the fact that anything he wear really suits him well, at mas lalo pa siyang guma-gwapo. He look more matured now, siguro dahil na din sa kasuotan niya.
No wonder kung bakit palagi siya pinagkakaguluhan ng mga estudyante, mapa-babae man o lalaki. Perhaps not only because of his looks, but because of his ability too that affects them.
“Oo nga pala, saan nanggagaling mga costumes ni sensei?” naitanong ko. I’m just curious.
“Ah, ‘yon ba? Galing sa drama club at sa ilang fans ni Nathan sensei. Madalas kasi pinipilit nilang magsuot si sensei ng kung anu-anong costumes, kaya napipilitan nalang siya.” class rep. said and smiled.
Napangiwi naman ako at ibinalik ang tingin kay Nathan sensei, na abalang pinapatigil ang mga estudyante ngayon.
“Kahit saang angulo tingnan, mukhang hindi naman siya napipilitan. Mukhang gustong-gusto pa nga niya e. Look!” nagtawanan naman kami.
“Alam mo ba, noong estudyante palang si Nathan sensei dito sa Academy, marami na talaga siyang fans. Habulin si sensei ng mga babae, pero palagi niya silang tinatakasan.” napangiwi naman ako sa sinabi ni class rep.
“Seriously? Kaya pala hanggang ngayon single parin siya.” nasabi ko naman.
“Ang sabi niya, nakakatuwa ang magustuhan siya ng maraming tao pero wala daw siya balak magkaroon ng girlfriend sa ngayon.” class rep. added.
“Bakit naman? Takot sa commitment?”
Class rep. laughs and shrugged his shoulders, “Maybe? Hindi din namin alam e.” matapos ang pag-uusap namin ay natigil na din sa pag-iingay ang mga estudyante.
“As you all know, there’s an important announcement today, but honestly, we’re also here because we don’t have any idea too.” Nathan sensei said.
Dahil sa kaniyang sinabi nagkaroon nang bulong-bulongan sa loob ng auditorium, na kalauna’y natigil rin nang magpatuloy si sensei.
“That being said, one of the Academy’s Headmaster is here to tell us about that important announcement herself.”
Awtomatikong natahimik ang lahat nang sabihin ‘yon ni sensei. I just look at everyone, like they suddenly froze right there and then.
After sensei’s speech, all we can hear now is some strange footsteps coming from the left side of the stage. Later on, a petite girl who’s wearing a white and pink kimono printed with sakura flowers and cherry blossoms showed up.
I think we are in the same age? I just watched her as she walks gracefully. I can’t help it, but to stare at her in awe, admiring how charming she is.
So pretty...
I know I’m not the only one who finds her beautiful. I mean, she really is!
But...
For some reason, I suddenly feel nervous.
“That’s Faith Lydian, the second Headmaster of High School division,” Class rep. whispered, but I can still clearly hear him.
Eh!? Really!? That girl is our Headmaster!?
I took a glimpse of her once again before turning back my gaze at class rep.
“S-Seriously?”
He nodded as a response, “This is really unexpected.”
I furrowed my brows.
What? What’s unexpected? Like, our Headmaster looks like she has the same age as mine or what?
I looked at him confused, “What do you mean?” I asked, almost whispering.
“The Headmasters rarely shows themselves. Sa mga school ceremonies at ilang events lang namin sila madalas makita, kaya nakakagulat na isa sa kanila ang pumunta pa dito para lang mag-announce.” class rep. answered.
“Malay mo naman naisipan lang niyang dumalaw gano’n, tapos naisip din niya na siya nalang mag-announce.” pagbibiro ko.
Dahil sa sinabi ko, bigla naman akong tinuktokan ni Hannah gamit na naman ang hawak niyang makapal na libro. Ang layo niya na nga sa akin pero nahampas parin ako, napakasama talaga!
“No, that’s impossible. I’m sure napaka-importante ng ia-announce niya. I don’t know why, but I’m feeling nervous about this. I think everyone feels the same way.” Jacob said which made me a little bit surprised.
This is the first time I heard him admit that he’s feeling nervous, but I guess he’s right. I don’t know, but I also feel the same way. All of us agreed with him.
“It’s really suspicious.” Hannah said emotionless.
“Greetings, our dear Alice. I apologize for the short notice of coming here, but as you all already know, I’m here to announce something very important.” she said with her softest tone of voice, which really suits her.
Hindi ko mapigilan ang mainggit ng kaunti. Bukod sa maganda na siya, pati din pala boses niya, samantalang ako, parang boses barako na nag hahanap palagi ng away.
“Marinig ko lang boses niya parang naiiyak na ako sa inggit.” mahinang bulong ko sa sarili at nagpakawala ng malalim na buntong hininga. Narinig naman ‘yon nila Jacob kaya palihim silang natawa.
“Sige tumawa pa kayo.” pagbabanta ko sa kanila na siyang ikinatahimik agad nilang dalawa.
Tingnan mo ‘to, napaka-samang mga kaibigan.
“On behalf of the higher ups and of all the Academy Headmasters, I hereby announce that there will be a grand tournament this year, by the end of September at Bleumontt Island.”
All of us remain silent in surprise, while some stood in complete shock, just like Nathan and Yuzu sensei— together with the other teachers. As for the student council, only the president managed to remain calm even though, I can also see he’s surprised by the sudden announcement.
“Grand tournament?” tanong ni Nathan sensei. Nilingon naman siya ng Headmaster at tumango muna bago siya sagutin.
“Yes, a grand tournament,” she said and then averted her attention at us again, “It’s a tournament for all classes, from Junior and Senior High school division to College division. A tournament that will show every individual’s Alice and see who will win against the other groups. Also, the student council and the fifteen aces will join and compete.”
Kung kanina nakakagulat na ang announcement niya, ngayon ay mas nagulat ang lahat sa kaniyang sinabi. To the point most of the students and teachers stood there, jaw dropped— especially Nathan and Yuzu sensei.
“What!? They will also compete!?” hindi makapaniwalang sinabi nia Yuzu sensei. Habang ang iba pang mga guro ay natulala nalang sa sobrang gulat.
“Miss Lydian, with all due respect, but I think that’s unfair. You can’t make low rank students fight against high ranked Alices, lalo na sa fifteen aces. We all know they won’t stand a chance!” Nathan sensei exclaimed in frustration and concern for us students.
Marami naman mga estudyante ang sumang-ayon sa sinabi ni sensei. Even our classmates, they’re protesting.
“Miss Lydian, please consider other students who aren’t capable to participate in the tournament.” Andrea sensei said, almost begging.
“I must admit, but it’s really unfair, miss Lydian.” Dinno sensei said as he fix his glasses.
Halos lahat ay nagkakagulo na sa inanunsyo sa amin. Ang student council naman ay umaksyon na para patahimikin ang ilang mga estudyante na maingay. Agad rin silang natahimik dahil sa takot nila sa student council, lalo na nang tingnan sila ng Headmaster.
Kahit nakangiti parin ang Headmaster, para akong natakot at kinilabutan sa kaniyang mga tingin. I can sense she’s someone who possesses a great Alice. After all, she’s one of the Headmasters despite of her appearance.
“It’s not a good idea. Ano ba ang pumasok sa isip ng higher ups at ng mga Headmasters para magpa-tournament ng ganito?” inis na nasabi ni Jacob.
“That’s why I have a bad feeling about this.” Hannah said blankly and sighed.
“Anong gagawin natin? Hindi ‘to maganda, paano na ang mga low rank students? Paano na ‘yung ibang estudyante na hindi pasok ang alice for offense or defense?” nag-aalalang tanong ni class rep.
Bigla naman nagsalita si Kei na naka p’westo lamang sa’ming likuran.
“They’re serious about this tournament. Just give up, you can’t defeat the student council, especially the members of fifteen aces.”
Lahat kami’y napayuko nalang sa kaniyang sinabi.
We already know it...
“Kahit sabihin pa natin per group ang mangyayari sa tournament, there’s no way we could stand a chance against those high ranked Alices. Maging student council pa ‘yan, lalo na ang fifteen aces.” I said in an uttered disbelief.
I hate to admit this, but we really can’t win against them. Although I haven’t met the rest of the members of fifteen aces, but I’m one hundred percent sure they are out of our leagues.
Even Kei is more than enough to wipe us out. He can literally defeat anybody. Paano nalang kaya ang iba pang miyembro ng fifteen aces, diba?
Oh... That’s right!
Maybe I can stand a chance, but—
Nevermind. I can’t do that.
I sighed in defeat, “Kahit si Kei nga lang, hindi na agad tayo mananalo laban sa kaniya.”
“But you can expel his alice,” Jacob said bluntly, “Pwede mo din ‘yon gawin sa iba pang estudyante.”
Sumang-ayon naman si class rep. Napabuntong hininga nalang ulit ako bago sumagot, “Yes, I can, but it’s not enough. Kahit hindi ko paganahin ang alice nila, sigurado akong hindi parin ako mananalo.”
I heard Kei scoffed, “You don’t even know what the fifteen aces are capable of. Kung inaakala niyo kapag hindi nila magamit ang alice nila ay matatalo niyo na sila, nagkakamali kayo.”
“You can’t defeat them that easily.” Lucas added.
“We’re talking here about the fifteen aces. They’re the best-of-the-best high ranked Alices here in our Academy. Kahit isang member lang, siguradong sila na agad ang panalo. Kahit i-disable pa ni Eris ang Alice nila, I’m sure they have something up on their sleeves.” Hannah added as she look at us.
“Honestly, there’s no need for this tournament, we already know who’s going to win anyway.” Lucas said with an obvious disappointment.
“Bakit sa daming pwde nila maisip, bakit ganitong klaseng tournament pa?” class rep. said in such a gloomy tone. I looked at him sympathetically.
“I— I understand you.” I said as I gently pat his shoulder.
Kahit hindi nila sabihin, alam ko kung ano ang iniisip nila ngayon. I also feel the same way— kahit hindi pa nagaganap ang tournament...
We already feel humiliated.
“Ano tingin nila sa atin, for entertainment!? Gosh!” I heard Curly exclaimed in anger.
Napayuko nalang ako sa ibat-ibang kumento na narinig ko mula sa mga kaklase ko at gano’n na rin sa iba pang estudyante. Nagawi nalang ulit ang aking atensyon sa stage kung saan nagpo-protesta parin sila Nathan sensei.
“I think you got it wrong, but it’s not like what you think.” pag-sagot naman ng Headmaster kay Nathan sensei at Yuzu sensei. They just looked at her completely baffled, including me.
“Just like what I said earlier, every class from Junior and Senior High school division, and the College Division, will participate in the tournament. Every class.” she pointed out the last two words and smiled. Everyone inside the auditorium fall into silence that instant.
“Kahit kasali sa tournament ang student council, pati na din ang fifteen aces, hindi naman sila magkakasama sa isang grupo. In other words, they will compete together with their classmates— hindi magkakasama ang buong student council, gano’n na rin sa fifteen aces, unless they belong in the same class.” the Headmaster explained.
Nagkaroon na naman ng bulong-bulongan sa loob ng auditorium. Ang ilan ay hindi parin sang-ayon sa tournament, habang ang iba naman ay medyo napanatag ang kalooban. Siguro dahil na din sa may kaklase silang parte ng student council o kaya’y ng fifteen aces.
“Akala ko talagang makakaharap natin ang buong student council, pati na din ang buong fifteen aces e. Kinabahan talaga ako doon, ayoko pa matapos ang buhay ko ‘no.” narinig kong nasabi ni Justin, na nakaupo lang sa harap namin.
“Hah! You’re overreacting, Justin. Hindi ka naman nila papatayin.” may kaartehang sagot ni Mina.
“Bakit? Totoo naman e. Masiyado silang malakas. Sa student council palang natatakot na ako, sa fifteen aces pa kaya? Si Kei nga, ni minsan hindi ko naisip na makalaban. Imposible na matapos ang tournament ng wala manlang masasaktan.” sagot pabalik ni Justin.
“Hindi lang ‘yon, iba parin kapag natalo ka. Kahit nga hindi pa nagsisimula ang tournament, kahit hindi pa natin sila nakakaharap, I already feel humiliated. It feels like they’re making fun of us. Hindi ba’t gano’n din ang nararamdaman niyo? Sabihin niyong mali ako?” mababakas sa boses ni Curly ang pagkainis niya ngayon. Parehas namang natahimik si Mina at Justin sa sinabi niya.
“We came up with this tournament to determine those students who might have a chance to stand against those who have strong alice. It’s not just about your abilities, but also on how you can manage to win against your opponent. You don’t have to worry, this tournament is by group, so you also have to work and plan together to win.” the Headmaster continued.
I stared at her blankly.
Kahit gano’n pa ang rason nila, still, this tournament doesn’t make any sense at all. In the end, the result will be the same.
“Pero unfair parin kung iisipin ‘yon, Miss Lydian. Kailangan ba talaga sumali ang buong fifteen aces sa tournament na ‘to?” Nathan sensei asked again.
“Honestly, it’s not mandatory. Kung tatanggi sila sa pagsali o kaya’y may kailangan pa silang gawin at tapusin that day, wala kaming ibang magagawa kung ‘di iba nalang ang mapunta sa pwesto nila.” I saw Nathan and Yuzu sensei breathe a sigh of relief after hearing that.
Kei scoffed, “Ah, yes. Those words again.”
Dahil sa narinig kong sinabi ni Kei, hindi ko maiwasan ang magtaka kung bakit bigla siyang nagalit after niya ‘yon marinig.
“Of course, there’s also a requirement. There must be at least, six to ten participants per class to compete in the tournament.” she added.
“This tournament will also serve as your final ranking exam this year. To those students who wished to become a special star holder, then this is your chance. Until then, the ranking system will remain the same and won’t change for the next two months.” she said and smiled again.
May mangilan-ngilan na natuwa sa sinabi ng Headmaster, pero marami parin ang umaayaw sa tournament. Siguro dahil na rin sa kahihiyan at inis na nararamdaman nila ngayon.
“Hmm, Ibig sabihin magkakaroon parin tayo ng normal exams sa susunod na dalawang buwan.” class rep. said.
I just sighed, “Oo nga pala, kailangan ko makabawi. Kung ‘di sa basement na ang magiging kwarto ko. Ayoko doon!” napanguso nalang ako at humalumbaba. Natawa naman mga kaibigan ko sa aking sinabi.
“Since it’s a tournament, it’s only natural there’s also some prizes.” the headmaster said which caught our attention.
Prizes?
“To those no star students, single, and double star holder, who will participate in the tournament, will automatically recieve one star to raise their ranks. And as for those triple star holder, they will receive twenty-five thousand rubies.” she said while still smiling.
Halos lahat ng estudyante ay natuwa sa kanilang narinig. Kahit ako, hindi ko maiwasan ang matuwa.
“Twenty-five thousand rubies.” halos pabulong na sinabi ni Hannah.
Lord, eto na ba ang sagot sa aking problema?
Kung sasali ako sa tournament, sigurado na agad na single star holder na ako at hindi ko na kailangan pa mag-alalang baka sa basement na ang kwarto ko sa susunod na buwan. Sa totoo lang, kahit isang star lang makuha ko malaking bagay na ‘yon para sa’kin, pagsusumikapan ko na lang na tumaas ang aking rank.
I think my friends already know what I’m thinking, that’s why they all look at me in disbelief.
“Don’t bother to join, ‘di ka tatagal sa tournament. Tanga ka pa naman.” Hannah bluntly said. Pakiramdam ko para akong binagsakan ng malaking bato sa sinabi niya.
“Okay, sabi ko nga. Joke lang talaga na sasali ako.” halos magmukmok ako sa aking kinauupuan dahil kay Hannah.
“The top three most outstanding classes in the tournament will also receive consolation prizes. And for those who will be declared as the winners of the tournament, will receive twenty million rubies and two weeks vacation wherever they want, all expenses are free.” she continued. Lahat ng estudyante ay hindi na napigilang mapasigaw sa sobrang tuwa.
“Oh my gosh! A vacation!”
“Yes! That’s exactly what we want!”
“I’ll do anything just to win and have a vacation, far away from here!”
“Those prizes are enough to motivate me.”
“I’m sooo excited!”
“Twenty million rubies!”
Surprisingly, even Hannah, Jacob, and class rep. feel delighted with the prizes. I understand kung ano ba iniisip ni Hannah ngayon, walang iba kung hindi ang tumataginting na twenty million rubies, puro pera nalang talaga iniisip ng babaeng ‘to e. Hindi na ‘yon magbabago.
“Ehh~? So lahat pala kayo interesado din sa prize?” I sarcastically said, and waved my hand, “No way. There’s noooo way na manalo kayo, hindi din kayo tatagal, ‘wag na kayo umasa.” I mockingly laughed and pats Jacob’s back.
Dahil sa sinabi ko, pare-parehas naman silang natahimik at halos magmukmok na rin.
“Sabi ko nga, matatalo din kami.” Jacob said in a gloomy voice.
“Ah... Ang sakit!” class rep. exclaimed almost teary eyed.
“Sayonara, my precious twenty million rubies.” Hannah said while wiping off something on her eyes using her handkerchief.
“Wala naman ako nakitang luha!” sigaw ko kay Hannah.
I just crossed my arms as I look at them, “So, bakit parang ang saya ninyo about sa prize? Si Hannah, alam ko dahil sa premyong pera natutuwa, e kayo ba? Saan?” kunot noong tanong ko kay Jacob at class rep.
“Isn’t it obvious? Of course doon sa vacation!” Jacob exclaimed. I can really tell he’s anticipating only with that prize, halos kuminang na mata niya e.
“Vacation! Yay!” masaya at cute na sagot ni class rep. at nakipag high-five kay Jacob. I’m in the middle of them, though. Wala ako nagawa kung hindi ang mapa-facepalm nalang at bumuntong hininga.
“Bigla ako naawa sa inyo.”
Napatitig nalang sila sa akin nang nagtataka, “It must have been tough for all of you, but congrats for pulling yourself together.” I pat their backs and give them a thumbs up.
I understand. After all, hindi sila hinahayaang lumabas ng Academy at once in a blue moon lang sila magkaroon ng chance na ganito.
Sinamaan naman ako ng tingin ni Jacob, “Alam mo, mas lalo mo lang sinisira ang mood ko.”
“Hehehe.” I teasingly smirk and give him a peace sign.
“Kyaah! Two weeks vaction!? Alright, sasali na ako sa tournament para lang sa vacation na ‘yan!” sigaw ni Curly.
“Woah, si Curly ‘yon din ang habol?” mahinang bulong ko sa sarili.
The Headmaster continued, “And lastly, for the student who will show such an outstanding ability during the tournament, might be granted to become a member of the fifteen aces.”
All of the noises suddenly stop that instant. It’s like everyone froze, but later on they fuzzily talk about it.
My jaw almost drop, “Tama ba narinig ko? Might be granted to become a member of the fifteen aces!?” hindi makapaniwalang naisigaw ko.
Jacob awkwardly laughed, “Haha seriously? At this point, I don’t know anymore.”
“Pakiramdam ko mababaliw ako sa sinasabi ng Headmaster. Imposible mga sinasabi niya e!” I said in an uttered disbelief and confusion.
Akala ko nakakagulat na ‘yung about sa tournament at ‘yung mga naunang prize, pero mas nakakagulat pala ‘to.
They gotta be kidding me!
“I can’t even imagine may makakatalo sa kanila, paano pa kaya ang palitan sila?” dagdag ko pa.
“Paano naman ang mga member ng fifteen aces? Ano mangyayari sa kanila?” naitanong ni class rep.
“Ano pa ba? Edi may matatanggal,” Kei impassively answered, “This happens every once in a while, the last time was one and a half year ago. Well, only us and few teachers know about it.”
Napalingon kaming apat at sabay-sabay na nagsalita, “Seryoso!?”
Kei looked at us with his usual facial expression, “Sa fifteen aces, kung sino ang pinakamalakas, sila ang nagtatagal. Kaya hindi na bago sa amin ay may maalis at mapalitan.”
“I see. Surpassing the members is an advantage.” Hannah said.
“Woah, that’s the fifteen aces for you.” manghang sinabi ni class rep.
“Pero ang sakit naman kung mapapalitan ka lang.” I blankly said.
Kei snorted, “No. It’s better if you don’t belong to that group.”
His words left us speechless. Pakiramdam ko may something sa mga salita ni Kei. I don’t know, but I can really see he doesn’t like being part of them at all. I don’t even remember him being proud of it either.
“Pero member ka ng fifteen aces, diba?” I asked, although alam ko naman na. He just stared at me, pare-parehas kaming natahimik, hanggang sa sumagot siya.
“That’s why it’s better not to be part of it. I know it better than anyone.” there’s this different seriousness on his words. Because of that, none of us dares to speak.
This is awkward...
When suddenly, we heard Curly snickered, “Don’t tell me sasali ka, Eris?”
I throw an irritated look at her, “Ano naman sa‘yo kung sasali ako?”
She just smirked, “It’s not just a simple tournament, someone like you who have a useless Alice won’t stand a chance against other students.”
“Will you just stop belittling, Eris? As if naman malakas Alice mo para manalo ka sa tournament. And to be honest, between you and Eris, mas may chance pa siya manalo kaysa sa’yo.” Hannah said, still with her famous emotionless expression.
Curly gasped in shock and disbelief, “A-Ano!? Well, whatever! Hindi siya mananalo sa tournament, kahit mag-pustahan pa tayo.” and with that, pataray siyang humarap ulit sa unahan. Napaka-papansin talaga ng babaeng ‘yon kahit kailan. Tch!
“She’ll be broke.” nasabi nalang ni Hannah at napangiti ng tipid. Napa-iling nalang ako sabay ismid.
“Hayaan mo na siya Eris, ‘wag mo nalang pansinin ang sinabi ni Venice.” mahinahong sabi ni class rep.
“Okay lang class rep., sanay naman na ako sa ugali ng babaeng ‘yon. Besides, she have a point. Although my Alice seems useless, still, malaking advantage parin naman ‘yon for me.” napangiti naman sila sa akin.
“That’s all for today. I know you have other questions, but later on, masasagot din ‘yan. Next week meron ipo-post sa bulletin board ng bawat classroom kung ano pa ang dapat ninyong malaman regarding sa tournament, until then, you all better start training. Do whatever you can. Goodluck, our dear Alices. May luck smile upon you all!”
Matapos ‘yon sabihin ng Headmaster, nagkaroon ng maraming sakura flowers sa paligid niya at binalot siya nito, hanggang sa maglaho siya nang parang isang bula. Para siyang tinangay ng mga sakura flowers. And it look so cool! Siguro related ‘yon sa Alice niya?
“Now you heard about the announcement, I hope everyone will cooperate. Pag-isipan ninyong mabuti kung sinu-sino ang magpa-participate sa inyong klase, okay? Don’t reluctantly join just because you heard about the prizes, it’s better to prioritize your safety and consider your abilities. After all, who wants to die? Hahaha!” Nathan sensei said and all the students froze in fear. Dahil naman doon, malakas siyang binatukan ni Yuzu sensei.
Guess they just realize how dangerous this tournament will be.
“Sira ka talaga! ‘Wag mo nga sila takutin. Tch!” Yuzu sensei glared at him. While Nathan sensei, he’s just laughing.
“You can all go home now. Don’t forget your school works!” pagpapaalala naman ni Andrea sensei.
Isa-isa na nagsi-alisan sa auditorium ang mga estudyante, habang ang iba naman ay nanatili para magpapicture kay Nathan sensei. I silently grunted while looking at sensei.
Should I go too? Pang memories din ‘yon tapos aasarin ko si Nathan sensei. Hehe.
Mukha naman nabasa ni Jacob ang iniisip ko kaya mabilis niya akong hinila paalis.
“Uuwi na tayo.”
“Ehh? Oo na, bitawan mo na ako. Tch!”
Sabay-sabay kaming naglakad pauwi sa dormitory, kasama parin sila Kei at Lucas, pati na din si Spade. Habang naglalakad kami, madami parin estudyante ang pinag-uusapan ang tungkol sa tournament.
“I have a question, first time lang ba ng Academy mag pa-tournament?” sabay naman umiling si class rep. at si Spade.
“Every two years meron tournament, para ‘yon sa ranking ng mga students pero kakaiba ang tournament ngayon.” Spade said while smiling.
Oh well, I must admit, gwapo si Spade kahit napaka-weirdo din niya. Ito talagang squad nila Kei puno ng mga gwapo e ‘no? Kahit mga napaka-pasaway at ang hilig mag cutting classes.
“Kakaiba? Paanong kakaiba?” tanong ko ulit, this time si class rep. naman ang sumagot.
“Katulad ng sinabi ni Hannah kanina, something is suspicious sa tournament na ‘to. Since last year lang naganap ‘yung last tournament, plus nasabi ni Spade kakaiba ang tournament ngayon dahil sa pagsali ng student council at fifteen aces. Hindi lang ‘yon, dati buong klase ang kasali sa tournament, hindi katulad ngayon na isa-isang grupo lang bawat klase. Isama na din ang mga prizes na sinabi ng Headmaster, walang gano’n dati. It’s suspicious, right?”
Napatango nalang ako sa sinabi niya.
“Dati para lang sa pag taas ng rank namin ginagawa ang tournament, for fun na din para sa students, pero ngayon, kakaiba e. Parang battle against best of the best ng Academy na.” dagdag pa ni Lucas.
“Sinabi mo pa. Mabuti pa dati, manalo matalo, ayos lang.” nasabi naman ni Jacob.
Napatango nalang ulit ako sa mga sinabi nila. Naintindihan ko na kung bakit andaming nagtataka talaga at pinag-uusapan parin ang tungkol sa tournament. Napakalaki ng ipinagbago ng tournament na ‘to kumpara noon.
“Sa tingin niyo, bakit kaya bigla nalang nila binago ang tournament? At bakit napaaga naman ata?” I asked. Everyone shrugged their shoulders.
“Baka para lang magkaroon ng bagong member sa fifteen aces?” class rep. asked.
“No, I can feel there’s something else.” Hannah said while eating strawberries.
Sandali nga, saan naman nanggaling ang dala niyang isang supot ng strawberries ngayon!?
Hindi naman namin mapigilan ang mapangiwi sa itchura ni Hannah. Ang takaw talaga ng babaeng ‘to pagdating sa strawberries.
“Who knows? Maybe they’re up to something?” Jacob said.
“Well, maybe? Hmm...” I said while pondering.
“Ano balak niyo sa tournament?” biglang tanong ni Spade, “Kei, sasali ka ba?”
He’s asking because he can’t use his alice right now, and it’s because of me. I can’t let my guards down whenever he’s around. Mahirap na, baka aksidente pa niyang mabasa ang iniisip ko o kaya ay may makita siya sa mga ala-ala ko.
“Hindi ko alam. Hindi ako sigurado kung makakasali ako sa tournament, baka may iba akong gagawin.” medyo iritableng sagot ni Kei.
I just stared at him. There’s really something that’s bothering him and at the same time ruining his mood. Siguro dahil sa tournament or baka sa sinasabi niyang ‘ibang gagawin’?
Nilingon naman kami ni Spade, “E kayo? Sasali ba kayo?”
“Hindi ako sigurado. Alam mo naman alice ko ‘di ba? P’wede ako makatulong pero may iba pa naman sa klase natin ang mas may chance para manalo sa tournament.” class rep. said.
“Ako? Ewan ko din, bahala na.” sagot naman ni Jacob.
“Hindi. My Alice won’t stand a chance, ayoko din naman ginagamit ang mga hayop para lang manalo.” sagot ni Lucas.
“Aww~ you’re so kind.” nasabi ko nalang at um-agree naman silang lahat. Nahiya naman bigla si Lucas. Haha! Cute.
“Of course, sasali ako para sa two million rubies.” Hannah said with full determination. Napangiwi nalang kaming lahat sa sinabi niya.
“As expected.” sabay-sabay nalang namin nasabi.
“Me? I’m not sure. Bahala na kapag nag decide na si Nathan sensei, kung kasama ako sa mapapasali, ayos lang sa akin. Kung hindi, edi mag che-cheer nalang ako. Gusto ko sana sumali para maging single star holder ako kaso nag-aalangan ako. Hehe.” sagot ko naman.
“Ehh? Tingin ko mas ayos kapag sumali ka, Eris.” Spade said while still smiling.
“Bakit naman?” kunot noong tanong ko.
“Kasi malaking advantage ang Alice mo. Diba nga, isa sa rare Alice ang Nullification ability? Halos maging myth na nga daw ang ability na gano’n. Naaalala mo naman siguro sinabi dati ni Maynard sensei, diba? I’m sure mas tataas ang chance ng klase natin manalo kung sasali ka.”
“Siguro nga, pero kahit mapanatag ang loob natin na pwede natin makasama si Kei sa tournament, we’re still not sure if we can win against other classes. Kaya maganda din mapasali si Eris sa group.” class rep. said.
“Hindi nga sigurado kung makakasali si Kei.” nasabi naman ni Lucas.
Napahawak naman ako sa aking baba habang nag-iisip, “Well, at least nagkaroon tayo ng konting chance para manalo.”
“Maybe we can manage it somehow,” Hannah said while her attention is on her high-tech wrist watch. Invention niya ‘yon, at may three-dimensional image na lumabas doon, “Kung kasama si Kei sa grupo, we have ninety-nine percent of chance against other classes na walang kaklase na parte ng student council at fifteen aces. Eighty percent naman kung kasali sila.”
“Not bad. ‘Yon ay kapag kasama si Kei sa grupo, paano kapag hindi?” tanong ni Jacob.
“Thirty percent.” Hannah bluntly said. Para kaming binagsakan ng bato sa sobrang baba ng chance namin manalo.
“Ang baba naman!” pasigaw na nasabi ni Jacob.
“Todo na ‘yon? ‘Yun na ‘yon? ano nalang magagawa ng klase natin!?” napa-facepalm nalang ako.
“Forget it. Hindi din naman mananalo klase natin.” seryosong nasabi ni Kei.
“Argh! Mali. We should stay positive. Malay mo naman diba manalo tayo, ‘wag ka nga nega d’yan.” inis na sinabi ko, sinamaan naman niya ako ng tingin.
“Parang kanina lang nagrereklamo ka.” iritableng sinagot niya sa‘kin at nagsimula na ulit kami magpalitan ng masasamang tingin.
“Kanina ‘yon, halos thirty seconds ago na. Iba na ngayon!”
“Ano naman ba pinagkaiba non?” he said in his famous stoic expression.
“Just shut up!” iritableng buwelta ko.
Class rep. sighed, “Hah~ Ang ganda sana kung makakapag bakasyon manlang tayo.” Halos lahat sila ay sumang-ayon sa kaniya.
“Ikaw ba Eris, ayaw mo ba makapag bakasyon? Pwede ka din non umuwi sainyo! I’m sure miss kana din ng pamilya mo.” nakangiting sinabi ni class rep.
Natigilan naman ako sa kaniyang sinabi. Literal na natigilan. Napahinto ako sa paglalakad. Umiwas muna ako ng tingin sa kanila bago sumagot.
“Uhh... Hindi ko alam. Hehe siguro nga, maganda din kung makakauwi ako sa’min.”
Bigla ko nalang naisip si lola.
Ang bahay namin.
At ang ilang mga alala simula noong bata palang ako.
“Eris.” Hannah called me. She’s looking at me with a hint of concern in her eyes, and then she genuinely smiled at me.
“If we win, let’s go home, okay?” she said while offering her left hand to me. Napatingin ako sa kaniyang kamay at tinanggap ‘yon.
I nodded and secretly smiles.
“Okay.”
Some good old memories when we were kids flashed into my mind.
“Eris, let’s go home.”
“Okay! Hehehe”
“Hannah, may strawberries sa bahay.”
“Alam ko, kaya nga uuwi na tayo.”
“Tingnan mo talaga ‘to, ‘yun lang talaga habol mo e ‘no!?”
“Ano pa nga ba?”
“Tingnan mo ‘to, paano naman ako?”
“Strawberries.”
“Hannah!”
Habang inaalala ko ang mga sandaling ‘yon natawa ako ng palihim. Magkahawak kamay kaming naglakad pauwi. I gently tighten my grip on her hand. I feel sad right now, but at the same time, I feel happy that my bestfriend is here. I’m lucky...
That I still have her.
***
Author’s short note:
Hello! I’m working on Allison Academy characters profile. You’ll see their faces soon! Magkakaroon din ng short facts about the characters and funny moments nila at the end of some chapters. That’ll be all!
Votes and comments are highly appreciated. Thank you for reading!